2017 Verrazzano - Chianti Classico Gran Selezione San Bartolo (750ml)

Delivering the structured depth required by the Gran Selezione designation, the 2017 Castello di Verrazzano San Bartolo Chianti Classico captures the limestone-rich minerality of its high-elevation Greve in Chianti vineyards. Farmed organically since 2014, the estate’s vines produce a composition of roughly 95 percent Sangiovese blended with a measured portion of Merlot to add aromatic complexity and roundness.

The wine undergoes controlled fermentation paired with two-week macerations and frequent pump-overs, building a firm tannic framework that medium-format French oak barrels soften during an eighteen-month aging period. Four additional months_resting in bottle before release preserve the vintage’s vibrant character. The 2017 pours a bright, intense ruby and opens with concentrated ripe red fruit layered over dried Mediterranean herbs and soft spice. Smooth, integrated tannins guide a full-bodied palate toward a notably long, warming finish where stone-mineral undertones remain distinct.

This vintage pairs best with robust meat dishes or aged cheeses that stand up to its savory structure. Serve pan-seared duck breast to highlight the wine’s herbal backbone, or match it with a slow-simmered lamb ragù for complementary richness. A semi-hard aged cheese such as Pecorino or Parmigiano complements the granitic minerality while balancing the smooth tannic finish.